Take an Accurate Hay Sample

Hay sampling should be a very simple, basic task, but this is often
a weak link in forage quality evaluation. Think about what we are
trying to accomplish when we take a hay sample. We are trying to
obtain a small sample (200 grams) that accurately represents many
tonnes of hay in a mow. It is very important to fairly represent
the leaf/stem ratio, as well as the legume/grass/weed mixture of
the hay. We are taking samples for analysis so that we can balance
rations, achieve livestock performance and determine market value.
Small sampling errors can lead to costly mistakes. Research and
practical experience indicate that the following practices can minimize
hay sampling error.

Sample Probes

It is impossible to get an accurate sample using bale slices, so
a sample probe is essential. There are many different types of acceptable
commercially available sample probes. "Push" types must
be kept extremely sharp, while "drill" types that use
either a hand brace or electric drill are more common. Many newer
probes utilize a canister collection chamber that holds the core
samples. Make sure the sample probe tip is sharp. Tips may be serrated
or straight, as long as they cut cleanly and do not push aside stems
particles. Dull probes will push material out of the core. Many
probes can be manually resharpened. The cutting edge should be a
right angles to the probe. The inside diameter should be between
3/8 and 3/4 inch. A smaller diameter may not cut the leaf/stem properly.
A too large diameter probe may result in a sample that is too large
for the lab. Avoid open augers that loose leaf particles when withdrawn
from the bale. Sample probes should allow penetration 12 to 22 inches
into the bales. Research has shown that an extra long probe is probably
not required for large round and large square bales.

Minimum Of 20 Cores

There is considerable variation in a hay lot. Take a separate sample
from each field and cutting. Sample bales at random at various heights.
Research has shown that it is very important that a minimum of 20
bales (1 core per bale) should be sampled. Because small square
bales have a pattern of leaf and stem packing within a bale, sample
at right angles near the centre of the butt of the bale. Large square
bales don't have the same pattern of leaf and stem packing, so sample
probes do not necessarily need to be from the centre of these bales.
Large round bales should be sampled at right angles to the outside
circumference of the bales.

Handle Samples Carefully

It is important to collect all of the sample for submission to
the lab. Samples tend to separate into leaf and stem particles,
so do not subsample or divide this composite sample. Combine the
whole core samples into a single sample and store in a polyethylene
freezer bag. Protect from heat or direct sunlight. The sample should
be about 200 grams. Avoid samples that are too large and difficult
for the lab to grind without subsampling. Subsampling defeats the
purpose of careful sampling. Avoid samples that are too small to
be representative of the hay. Label samples clearly. There is no
accreditation program for forage analysis in Ontario, so be sure
to use a reputable laboratory. You may also want to consider requesting
fibre digestibility (dNDF) analysis.

Extra care while taking a hay sample can ensure a more representative
sample and more accurate results.

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